BY SHYAM PATELANAHEIM, CA - The Indian Dental Association of California held their International Convention from Dec 26 to 28, hosting a crowd of more than 500 members, guests, and dignitaries. The event focused on enhancing the scope of the dental industry through continuing education with various seminars and related activities.

The convention took place primarily at the Hyatt Regency here with a Bollywood entertainment extravaganza on Dec 27 at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts. An installation ceremony was also conducted on the final day to usher in new committee members as well as incoming President Dr. Tushar Doshi.The event kicked off on Dec 26 with deep “pragatya,” the traditional lighting of the lamps and prayers. IDA Chairman Dr. Jaswant Suthar welcomed all the guests and gave a brief history of the Indian Dental Association. Dr. Mahesh Verma, who served as both chief guest and president of IDA India, spoke about dentistry overseas and urged all dental professionals to come together to advance the industry in India. Day two and three of the convention on Dec 27 and 28, continued the theme of education as courses with top speakers in the profession drew large crowds of young dental associates. To accommodate the varied age groups, a number of family activities were also held to keep children entertained. On the night of Dec 27, a venue change to the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts led anxious and excited guests to the talents of Sudesh Bhosle and his Bollywood orchestra. Accompanied with singers Chetan Rana and Arpita Thakker, Bhosle wowed the audience of over 2500 to a myriad of hits including a few from K.L. Saighal. The event was open to the public as well, and tickets sold out quickly.A gala dinner on the evening of Dec 28 took place in Anaheim along with an installation ceremony that ushered in new committee members including incoming President of IDA California Dr. Tushar Doshi.More than 70% of Indian dentists are a part of the American Dental Association, which is higher than the national average. Carol Summerhays, president-elect of the ADA and chief guest of the gala night, alluded to this fact by emphasizing in her opening remarks that “diversity is the fabric of success.” Dr. Walter Weber, guest of honor and president of the California Dental Association, briefly spoke about the challenges facing young dentists such as high student debt and insurance reimbursement. He acknowledged the tireless efforts of the IDA in working in conjunction with the CDA in helping the younger generation to flourish within the profession. Convention Convener Dr. Parimal Kansagra thanked all the committee members and sponsors individually for the hard work they put into the convention as well as their efforts in continuing the legacy of the IDA year round. He also presented two $2500 checks to The Oral Cancer Society as well as The Downs Syndrome Foundation on behalf of IDA. Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard delivered a pre-recorded video message not only commending the IDA for their contributions to the dental profession but also to their charitable contributions within the community. “I know that many of you, in addition to running and operating successful dental practices, also participate in charity drives and a great many community service projects throughout the year. As leaders in your communities you are setting an example of service that is infectious and inspire others to do the same,” Gabbard said. The gala night marked an end to Dr. Kiran Trivedi’s term as president of the Indian Dental Association of California. His successor, Dr. Tushar Doshi, concluded the gala night panel of speakers by emphasizing and assuring all the members that he will not be taking his new role for granted.